The Socialist Party of Torrevieja (PSOE) has raised concerns over the growing number of free-roaming chickens and roosters across the city, describing the situation as a public health and road safety risk that has been allowed to escalate for decades.
Spokesperson Bárbara Soler noted that while many residents view the presence of these birds as an amusing curiosity, their uncontrolled spread poses real dangers. The problem dates back more than 25 years, when the then Partido Popular (PP) local government released several birds into the Parque de las Naciones. “They soon left the park and have since spread to large areas of the municipality, creating issues of cleanliness, safety, and health,” she said.
Soler warned that the lack of veterinary oversight increases the risk of diseases such as salmonella or avian flu, both of which have appeared in other regions of Spain. With an estimated 700 birds now roaming freely, the cost and difficulty of removing them has grown significantly. She stressed that any action should be carried out “with the utmost respect for the animals,” but highlighted the urgent need to rehouse them in a controlled environment.
The PSOE also pointed out that the situation violates Law 8/2003 on animal health, as the birds are not officially registered and no adequate waste management system has been implemented. This has led to unsanitary conditions, particularly near businesses.
According to Soler, the council has now approved a €16,000 contract (plus VAT) for the capture and relocation of the chickens, though so far no company has shown interest in taking on the task. She concluded by blaming the PP for creating and perpetuating the problem:
“This situation was caused by the PP, both through the original release of the birds and 25 years of inaction. At the moment, the chickens are winning 1–0 against the management of the Partido Popular.”
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